The American Psychiatric Association Practice Guideline for the Treatment of Patients With Eating Disorders

The lifetime prevalence of eating disorders in the United States is
approximately 0.80% for anorexia nervosa, 0.28% for bulimia nervosa, and 0.85%
for binge-eating disorder, although estimates can vary depending on the study
location, sample demographic characteristics, case finding, and diagnostic
approaches. Importantly, the lifetime burdens and psychosocial impairments
associated with an eating disorder can be substantial because these illnesses
typically have an onset in adolescence or early adulthood and can persist for
decades. Since publication of the previous practice guideline on eating
disorders, there have been many studies on psychotherapies for individuals with
these diagnoses as well as some studies on pharmacotherapies. However,
substantial gaps remain in the availability and use of evidence-based treatments
for individuals with an eating disorder.

The American Psychiatric
Association Practice Guideline for the Treatment of Patients With Eating
Disorders seeks to enhance the assessment, treatment, and quality of care in
adolescents, young adults, and adults with an eating disorder. The guideline
focuses on evidence-based pharmacological, psychotherapeutic, and other
nonpharmacological treatments for eating disorders, primarily anorexia nervosa,
bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder. In addition to statements related to
assessment and treatment planning, which are an integral part of
patient-centered care, the guideline provides direction on implementing these
recommendations into clinical practice, with the goal of reducing the mortality,
morbidity, and significant psychosocial and health consequences of these
important psychiatric conditions.